×

Panthers knock off Black Knights

SOUTH DAYTON — The Pine Valley Panthers volleyball team put together a complete match with a convincing four set victory over the Silver Creek Black Knights on Thursday night, 25-10, 25-12, 16-25, 25-10. “We were a lot better all around,” Pine Valley coach Kaitlin Hoth stated. “We responded great and did all the little things right. We could not have played any better, especially early in the match.”

The Panthers got off to a quick lead in the first set to go ahead 12-2 and they never looked back on that set. Strong passing and all around team play by all of the players proved the convincing score.

Pine Valley (2-2) continued its momentum in the second set. Strong serving and multiple errors by the Black Knights pushed the Panthers to a 19-3 lead in the set. The quality of play permitted Pine Valley to play everybody on the team for the first time this year. “I have waited for a long time to get everyone into the game,” Hoth added. “They all had the opportunity to spend some time in the game and they all contributed in some way.”

Kiera Brennan led the Black Knights in the third set by claiming the first eight points. Brennan’s jump serve was extremely effective with multiple aces and put her team in a good position to take advantage of the point. Silver Creek continued its success that set with better hitting as they were also aided in multiple mistakes by the Panthers. “We can’t have these moments like we did in the third set,” Hoth added. “It is tough to be successful against good teams when we take a break.”

Pine Valley turned the tide back in their favor in the fifth early on by taking an 11-2 lead. The Black Knights responded with six consecutive points before the Panthers finished the match on a 14-1run to secure the victory. “We got ahead early and that gave us a lot of confidence,” Hoth added. “We dug a majority of their balls and played aggressive on the net. Our communication was also the best it has been all year. Hopefully this can help us moving forward.”

The entire Pine Valley team made contributions last night, highlighted by Sadie Fadale with 10 kills and 7 digs. Lyric Westlund also added three kills, 13 digs, and two aces, while Madison Meabon chipped in with 12 digs, three aces and a kill.

Brennan led the Black Knights with seven aces. “This was a rough game with the way it started and continued that way,” said Silver Creek coach John Hilliker. “It was tough because we have been playing better as of late, but tonight was not our night. Pine Valley was ready and they totally outplayed us.”

Both teams are back in action on Monday as Pine Valley hosts Fredonia while Silver Creek travels to Dunkirk.

Newsletter

Today's breaking news and more in your inbox

I'm interested in (please check all that apply)
Are you a paying subscriber to the newspaper? *
   

Starting at $4.62/week.

Subscribe Today